The beloved IPAs of the day have a great history dating back to 19th century England. Initially, they were lightly hopped and quite pale, as the name explains. Due to high tariffs, this beer went from its Imperial title to India, producing the well-known India Pale Ale. The acronym is still synonymous for either brew.

This Belgian-style tripel IPA, Uprising, is very smooth, in part due to the mild-mannered Belgian hops.

Uprising has a handsome apricot color with hazy overtones. A stunning, light frothy head rises and falls quickly, leaving a thick ring stuck to the glass’ edge. Light swirls finish the lackluster head, scaling the top of this ale before disappearing.

There was a lack of carbonation, and at times the beer almost felt flat.

This is not to deter the taster, because this ale was very smooth and delightful.

Hints of apricot, apple, maybe mango, and mild spices characterized this beer. With a brief malt aftertaste, this is a great ale for an IPA newcomer. Although, I feel it might have been wrongly categorized.

I normally drink my IPAs in a warm glass, but this truly was better in a frosted mug. The crisp fruit flavors were smooth and pleased my palate.

While to some they are ubiquitous, I prefer the strength and bitterness of the West Coast-styled hops, which are generally characterized by their strong nature, bracing bitterness, citric aftertones and aromas.